Distribution and transmission power lines in Newfoundland and Labrador carry up to 735,000 volts. Heavy equipment and high voltage power lines do not mix, and contractors put themselves at extreme risk when they do not take the proper precautions before working around electricity.

Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro’s (Hydro), a Nalcor Energy company, top priority is to ensure the safety of employees, contractors and the public. In 2009, Hydro recorded 12 electrical contacts with power lines. The majority of these have involved contractors using large equipment such as booms, cranes, tractor, trailers, snow clearing equipment and dump trucks.

“Contact with power lines is extremely dangerous and can be fatal,” says Jim Haynes, Hydro’s Vice President of Regulated Operations. “One contact is too many. We are asking all contractors to be aware of the dangers associated with electricity and to take the appropriate precautions when working around power lines.”

By taking the time to locate and ensure adequate clearances from overhead and underground power lines before beginning work, electrical contacts can be prevented.

“Working around electricity requires your complete attention,” says Haynes. “Accidents can be prevented with proper planning, worksite evaluation and adhering to safe distances.”

Specific requirements for maintaining clearances and providing worker training are mandated by the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. Special permits are required when working within 5.5 metres of energized power lines. Operators of equipment with the capability of contacting overhead or underground power lines must attend an approved “Power Line Hazards” safety course.

Bill Nippard, is one of Hydro’s Managers for Transmission and Rural Operations. He believes that these types of incidents occur because workers are rushing to complete their job and don’t take the time to be aware of their surroundings.

“To be safe around overhead power lines, you need to slow down, look up, and assess your working environment,” says Nippard. “When you learn valuable lessons in a hazards safety course, you need to put it into practice each and every time you work anywhere near electricity.”

Hydro is working to continue to raise awareness among those who work around power lines, reminding them to take precautions to ensure the safety of themselves and others.

For more information on working safely around electrical equipment, click here or call 1.888.764.9376.